The election of Henry Raspe as the anti-king of the Kingdom of Germany occurred amidst a backdrop of intense political rivalry and conflict. Following the death of Emperor Frederick II in 1250, the struggle to control the German throne intensified, leading to Conrad IV's ascension as the legitimate king. However, not all noble factions supported him, resulting in the rise of opposition figures such as Henry Raspe, the Landgrave of Thuringia. On May 22, 1246, Raspe was elected in a meeting of disaffected nobles and supporters who sought to counter Conrad's influence and legitimacy. This election indicated a significant divide among the German nobility, as various factions sought to assert their own claims and power in the face of a weakened imperial authority. The election also underscored the importance of alliances and support among regional leaders in achieving political goals at that time.

Henry Raspe's position as anti-king was fraught with challenges. His rule was never universally recognized, and he faced constant threats from Conrad IV’s supporters. The election was symbolic of the fragmentation in the empire, as multiple claimants to the throne emerged, further complicating the political landscape. The ensuing conflict would eventually escalate into open warfare among rival factions, marking the period as one of political instability and strife within the German territories.

Ultimately, Raspe's reign as anti-king was short-lived. His election did not lead to a successful consolidation of power and support, and by 1247 he faced defeat in battle against Conrad IV’s forces. However, the implications of his election continued to resonate within the empire, influencing subsequent power dynamics in the region and highlighting the fragility of monarchical authority in the rapidly changing political terrain of medieval Germany.